I recognize that a person is a whole human being, not simply an identified problem, and is relating to the stresses and circumstances of the external and internal environment in the best way he or she knows how. Therapy focuses on reducing stresses and enhancing skills. I emphasize a practical, supportive nonjudgmental course of treatment. I provide techniques and skills to increase motivation, emotional management, anxiety reduction, effective communication, and a sense of self empowerment, pride and well-being. I work with adults, couples, children and families. My previous work in schools, hospitals, and in a variety of social and clinical agencies provides the immediate and the long-term perspective on problem behaviors.

Peg is a nurse-psychotherapist, cancer survivor and founder of Listening to Cancer, a practice specializing in dealing with the emotional impact of cancer, and the spiritual questions this experience often raises. She earned her bachelor's in science degree in nursing from the University of Minnesota and her master's in transpersonal counseling psychology from the graduate school of psychology of Naropa University. Peg is available for individual or group work with people affected by cancer or other life-threatening illness. Jean Sinoda Bolen, M.D., psychiatrist, explains how to choose a therapist for this work. 'Seek a therapist who loves the work-whose soul and heart are in it; someone for whom psychotherapy is her own soul work. When your life depends on finding meaning, the guide to your process must have found her way there.'

I work with young adults (teens-thirties). These clients are working with anxiety, depression, trauma and life transition issues that are often existential in nature. I also work with couples, this work is done with a co-therapist. Yes, two therapists working with you and your partner at the same time. Modalities that I use include; Internal Family Systems, Past Reality Integration, PACT, Gestalt, Somatic Experiencing. For individuals my work is mindfulness-based and informed by my work as a cognitive-affective science researcher. Eight steps of the change process are; 1. Nervous System Attenuation 2. Emotional Awareness 3. Emotional Regulation 4. Attention Modulation 5. Cognitive-affective process change 6. Personality Change 7. Behavioral Change 8. Reality change

My practice respects the experiences that have brought you or your child to this point in life; and helps sort through what is getting in the way. Sometimes we explore current stressors, other times there are old memories or experiences that are weighing you down. By creating and maintaining a safe and non-judgmental environment; space is held to express yourself and make positive changes to help you feel better.

I have over 15 years of experience specializing in working with adults, and families with young children from infancy to age 10. For youth, my practice involves play therapy and working together with the parent(s) and child.

While most therapy sessions are held in the office. On a case-by-case basis therapy may be home-based or nature-based (in a park, or hiking for example).

For more information visit: www.debbiemayer.com